Of course we knew this was coming. Elizabeth learns a lesson that everything is not as it seems. She is victimized by her advisers and her own mother, who knew that even after the two year waiting period, Margaret would not be able to marry unless she gave up everything. Everyone was banking on the flamboyant princess becoming bored with the arrangement and giving up plans to marry her true love. This entire episode revolves around the strife between the two sisters. We get a look at the press and how they treated Margaret, nearly running her car off the road, snapping pictures. We also have a fed up Prince Philip, who continues to be unable to participate in anything of any substance, who is being sent off to Melbourne for the 1956 Olympic Games. The queen mother is a tyrant at times and hates Philip because she feels he is detracting from the effectiveness of Elizabeth. The final idea presented in this closing act of what appears now to be the first season with a second one coming is that the Queen is enduring, she is standing her ground, following the company line to the bitter end.
10 Reviews
A natural point for the season to end, solidly delivered.
TouchTheGarlicProduction9 November 2016
I absolutely hate it when the last shot of a film is included in the trailer. Unfortunately, this series did just that. Yet this is even worse than when a movie does it, as most movies aren't ten hours long. That's just a minor pet peeve, however. It does not detract from the episode in a major way.
One thing which has detracted from this series in a major way for me, however, is Margaret. The actor is fine, but I find that the way she was written leaves much to be desired. We're supposed to sympathize with her and Peter Townsend, so that it is all the more devastating when Elizabeth is forced to make interventions in their relationship. The problem is... I don't. In my opinion, the show did not do enough to develop their relationship. To me, it comes across as very one-dimensional. And since the connection is not felt, Margaret just becomes annoying as she repeatedly puts her sister in impossible situations and then fails to empathize with her dilemma whatsoever.
The reason I find it so disappointing that Margaret comes off as annoying and underdeveloped is that this series has set such a high standard for subtlety with every other element. I have been repeatedly amazed by the sheer elegance, simplicity, and subtlety achieved in the development of almost every character, relationship, and situation. I believe that Margaret and Peter's relationship may be the only significant weak link. Unfortunately, it is also the central story of both this episode and in some ways the season as a whole. As a result, I find this to be one of the weaker episodes of the season. However, because it is the central story-line of the episode, all the other characters tie into it, and their parts are very strong. Elizabeth's dilemma strikes at the heart of her arc, her conflict between herself as a person and herself as a sovereign. Edward also has a surprisingly touching scene. And really, despite all the problems I have with the Margaret and Peter story-line, I must admit that it provides a very natural point on which to conclude the season.
I look forward to the next season. I hope it finds a central story-line more befitting of the fantastic writing, acting, and cinematography that has come to typify the first one.
One thing which has detracted from this series in a major way for me, however, is Margaret. The actor is fine, but I find that the way she was written leaves much to be desired. We're supposed to sympathize with her and Peter Townsend, so that it is all the more devastating when Elizabeth is forced to make interventions in their relationship. The problem is... I don't. In my opinion, the show did not do enough to develop their relationship. To me, it comes across as very one-dimensional. And since the connection is not felt, Margaret just becomes annoying as she repeatedly puts her sister in impossible situations and then fails to empathize with her dilemma whatsoever.
The reason I find it so disappointing that Margaret comes off as annoying and underdeveloped is that this series has set such a high standard for subtlety with every other element. I have been repeatedly amazed by the sheer elegance, simplicity, and subtlety achieved in the development of almost every character, relationship, and situation. I believe that Margaret and Peter's relationship may be the only significant weak link. Unfortunately, it is also the central story of both this episode and in some ways the season as a whole. As a result, I find this to be one of the weaker episodes of the season. However, because it is the central story-line of the episode, all the other characters tie into it, and their parts are very strong. Elizabeth's dilemma strikes at the heart of her arc, her conflict between herself as a person and herself as a sovereign. Edward also has a surprisingly touching scene. And really, despite all the problems I have with the Margaret and Peter story-line, I must admit that it provides a very natural point on which to conclude the season.
I look forward to the next season. I hope it finds a central story-line more befitting of the fantastic writing, acting, and cinematography that has come to typify the first one.
Glory to the queen
TheLittleSongbird23 February 2021
The first season of 'The Crown' was a great and at its best excellent one on the whole. Of the previous episodes, the only disappointment was "Gelignite", and primarily because of the Margaret and Peter subplot should have been a good deal more interesting than it was and because the episode went too far on making Margaret very difficult to like. Having said that there were also particularly fantastic episodes, such as "Smoke and Mirrors", "Scientia Potentia Est" and "Assassins".
"Gloriana" could have ended Season 1 with a bang, but unfortunately it was not quite glorious enough and didn't quite have the power that was expected. It is still good and has many fantastic things, the same fantastic things apparent in all the previous episodes. But what disappointed about "Gelignite", which was also not a bad episode at all don't get me wrong, returns here in "Gloriana" and just as problematically executed.
Shall start with what works excellently. "Gloriana" is exceptionally well made. The expense really does show in the classy, sumptuous period detail and the atmospheric and elegant way it's shot. The music for me wasn't too intrusive or low-key and was beautiful scoring on its own. The main theme is not easy to forget.
Writing probes a lot of thought and intrigue, it is much more than soap-opera and doesn't feel too modern. The story is far from perfect, but it does intrigue at least and is at its strongest in addressing the moral dilemma Elizabeth faces and the conflict that comes with the situation, done with subtlety yet tact. Edward's phone call to Elizabeth agreed was a beautifully handled scene. When it comes to the acting, Claire Foy comes off best in a dignified and very expressive turn that never resorted to histrionics or over-seriousness.
However, "Gloriana" is dominated too much by the Margaret and Peter subplot and once again it is on the bland side and is rather too one-sided. While Elizabeth's moral dilemma progresses and has emotional impact, the Margaret and Peter subplot doesn't have enough of either and ends on an incomplete-feeling note. The pace could have been tighter on occasion.
Furthermore, Vanessa Kirby again overdoes it and is annoying and the episode does go too far on making Margaret difficult to like or root for, with no dimension really.
In conclusion, many fantastic things here but for a last episode to such a good first season it could have been more. 7/10
"Gloriana" could have ended Season 1 with a bang, but unfortunately it was not quite glorious enough and didn't quite have the power that was expected. It is still good and has many fantastic things, the same fantastic things apparent in all the previous episodes. But what disappointed about "Gelignite", which was also not a bad episode at all don't get me wrong, returns here in "Gloriana" and just as problematically executed.
Shall start with what works excellently. "Gloriana" is exceptionally well made. The expense really does show in the classy, sumptuous period detail and the atmospheric and elegant way it's shot. The music for me wasn't too intrusive or low-key and was beautiful scoring on its own. The main theme is not easy to forget.
Writing probes a lot of thought and intrigue, it is much more than soap-opera and doesn't feel too modern. The story is far from perfect, but it does intrigue at least and is at its strongest in addressing the moral dilemma Elizabeth faces and the conflict that comes with the situation, done with subtlety yet tact. Edward's phone call to Elizabeth agreed was a beautifully handled scene. When it comes to the acting, Claire Foy comes off best in a dignified and very expressive turn that never resorted to histrionics or over-seriousness.
However, "Gloriana" is dominated too much by the Margaret and Peter subplot and once again it is on the bland side and is rather too one-sided. While Elizabeth's moral dilemma progresses and has emotional impact, the Margaret and Peter subplot doesn't have enough of either and ends on an incomplete-feeling note. The pace could have been tighter on occasion.
Furthermore, Vanessa Kirby again overdoes it and is annoying and the episode does go too far on making Margaret difficult to like or root for, with no dimension really.
In conclusion, many fantastic things here but for a last episode to such a good first season it could have been more. 7/10
Another Lesson in "Duty"
lavatch10 June 2019
Warning: Spoilers
The program opens in a flashback from December 10, 1936. George VI gathers his two daughters who swear an oath of loyalty to each other and to their father. The King feels betrayed by his older brother for the abdication and insists that his daughters will remain united in a bond of trust. But, as the episode will demonstrate, Margaret is ultimately betrayed by her older sis.
After two years of separation from Peter Townsend, Margaret has now turned 25, and, according to Elizabeth's word, she is now free to marry. But Elizabeth learns that there is still resistance from her cabinet members, four of whom are divorced men. After conferring with church authorities and having a phone conversation with her uncle Edward in exile, Elizabeth answers another call of duty: she will betray her younger sister and not allow the marriage.
The finale to Season 1 is the only program where Elizabeth truly appears weak. In the face of broad popular support and changing times in the 1950s, Elizabeth defines herself as a captive of the ruling elite and a creature of the past.
The filmmakers try to put a positive spin in Glorious Gloriana. But the inescapable conclusion is that Elizabeth II is a timid and frail woman afraid to take a stand for human decency and the honor of keeping her word. Of all ten episodes of Season 1, the most sympathetic character is the one whom the series wishes the audience to reconsider for the historical record: Princess Margaret.
After two years of separation from Peter Townsend, Margaret has now turned 25, and, according to Elizabeth's word, she is now free to marry. But Elizabeth learns that there is still resistance from her cabinet members, four of whom are divorced men. After conferring with church authorities and having a phone conversation with her uncle Edward in exile, Elizabeth answers another call of duty: she will betray her younger sister and not allow the marriage.
The finale to Season 1 is the only program where Elizabeth truly appears weak. In the face of broad popular support and changing times in the 1950s, Elizabeth defines herself as a captive of the ruling elite and a creature of the past.
The filmmakers try to put a positive spin in Glorious Gloriana. But the inescapable conclusion is that Elizabeth II is a timid and frail woman afraid to take a stand for human decency and the honor of keeping her word. Of all ten episodes of Season 1, the most sympathetic character is the one whom the series wishes the audience to reconsider for the historical record: Princess Margaret.
The Problem With Marrying A Divorced Man
vivianla10 November 2020
Warning: Spoilers
We see young Elizabeth and Margaret as children running to see their father. Margaret is asked to stop and the assistant puts her pink robe on her delicately on her little body. The sisters go to their father where they were told they must never go against the other because they are sisters. He just got into an argument with his brother and basically had to banish his brother and his wife.
Margaret is excited that it is her 25th birthday meaning she has waited 2 years to finally be able to marry Peter Townsend, a divorced man.
The queen is informed after she brings it up that Margaret cannot actually marry - she can make known her intention but she needs permission from the crown and the church...
Margaret is upset that she would not be able to continue with her lifestyle as is if she were to marry Townsend. She wears a beautiful dress and the couple go off to dance. Margaret is asked to dance and she twirls gracefully around and around until she is in the arms of the man who asked her. Townsend goes to bed. Later Margaret goes to Townsend's bedroom despite the party having not stopped. They kiss in bed and she cuddles on top of Townsend - it is such a beautiful scene.
After discussing with people, Elizabeth comes to the decision and tells her sister privately she cannot allow them to marry and stay in the family.
Margaret is devastated. She wears a beautiful 3/4 length pants and short cardigan. She turns around and looks sadly at Townsend.
Townsend announces to the public and it is aired on radio that they have decided to break off their relationship, effective immediately. He will go back to his work.
Phillip is clearly sick of all of this. He watches the news of the British expressing their feelings for Margaret, wishing for her to be with Peter. He goes to Elizabeth who is dressed in her white dress with the blue sash. She is talked to by a man and a woman powders her body with a poofy brush. Phillip tells Elizabeth he will go on that Australia Olympics trip as suggested by Elizabeth and go on a royal tour at the same time, taking five months in total.
We see Elizabeth's former advisor watch a video of Nasser and injecting himself with a mysterious substance. Phillip drives off. Margaret looks sad. Elizabeth sits for her photoshoot with crowns being brought in. A man says she is now Gloriana. She is now Elizabeth Regina.
Margaret is excited that it is her 25th birthday meaning she has waited 2 years to finally be able to marry Peter Townsend, a divorced man.
The queen is informed after she brings it up that Margaret cannot actually marry - she can make known her intention but she needs permission from the crown and the church...
Margaret is upset that she would not be able to continue with her lifestyle as is if she were to marry Townsend. She wears a beautiful dress and the couple go off to dance. Margaret is asked to dance and she twirls gracefully around and around until she is in the arms of the man who asked her. Townsend goes to bed. Later Margaret goes to Townsend's bedroom despite the party having not stopped. They kiss in bed and she cuddles on top of Townsend - it is such a beautiful scene.
After discussing with people, Elizabeth comes to the decision and tells her sister privately she cannot allow them to marry and stay in the family.
Margaret is devastated. She wears a beautiful 3/4 length pants and short cardigan. She turns around and looks sadly at Townsend.
Townsend announces to the public and it is aired on radio that they have decided to break off their relationship, effective immediately. He will go back to his work.
Phillip is clearly sick of all of this. He watches the news of the British expressing their feelings for Margaret, wishing for her to be with Peter. He goes to Elizabeth who is dressed in her white dress with the blue sash. She is talked to by a man and a woman powders her body with a poofy brush. Phillip tells Elizabeth he will go on that Australia Olympics trip as suggested by Elizabeth and go on a royal tour at the same time, taking five months in total.
We see Elizabeth's former advisor watch a video of Nasser and injecting himself with a mysterious substance. Phillip drives off. Margaret looks sad. Elizabeth sits for her photoshoot with crowns being brought in. A man says she is now Gloriana. She is now Elizabeth Regina.
SEASON 1: PRETTY SOLID START
matdeman16 March 2021
I know it took a while for me to finish the 1st season but that isn't a detriment to the show. I've been focusing on movies lately so I decided to take my time with this, and ye I really like it. The highlight of the show in my opinion are the performances. Every single actor transforms into their character it's amazing. That miserable tone that the show is trying to establish is very affective. I tend to not like dramas like these but I think it really works here. As I said, historical accuracy isn't what I'm finding in this show. I'm not gonna automatically relate the actions of these characters to their real life counterparts cuz I dont really give a sht. It's jus fun seeing the characters turn on each other. Anyways pretty good so far.
Ganging up
bythesea-9381027 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Everyone hangs up on the Queen, again,they all expect her to do certain things because she's a woman, wife, mother sister daughter and forget that she's The Queen and never gets to stop being so. Margaret once again shown as a spoilt entitled brat who wants all the glitz and privilege without any of the responsibilities that go with those . Hopefully in real life she knew it was ultimately beyond the Queens control .and was fully aware that she had to abide by what the 'rules' of her position stated. It's never questioned as to why someone of Townsends age would have anything in common with such a young woman other than familiarity and proximity.
One sided Margaret
skotdog8 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Did no-one question that the oath for both sisters not to put anyone else before their sisterhood was portrayed completely one sided.. Maragret puts Peter before her sister and completely disregards the many conflicts that the situation creates for Elizabeth.
I really wanted to see Liz spin the oath on selfish Margaret and "queen" her like she did with Churchill.
I really wanted to see Liz spin the oath on selfish Margaret and "queen" her like she did with Churchill.
dramatic but erroneous
jknousak12 August 2020
Warning: Spoilers
A promise is a promise -- like an oath. Liz promised her sister and father first. Period. That's it. And, anyway, the truth was that she did keep her promise as papers released in 2004 shows.
The series is good, but it cannot be true in many character aspects -- too many scenes between just 2 people, often Liz and Phil and I doubt they ever told their intimate discussions to anyone. So is the portrayal of their terrible married life after queendom true? We'll never know considering the above about Margaret and Peter.
I thought the phone call from Edward was fantastic with what he said to Liz. Seriously, who would ever want to have 2 halves of oneself in conflict w/in one another all their live long days? No wonder George VI was po'd.
The series is good, but it cannot be true in many character aspects -- too many scenes between just 2 people, often Liz and Phil and I doubt they ever told their intimate discussions to anyone. So is the portrayal of their terrible married life after queendom true? We'll never know considering the above about Margaret and Peter.
I thought the phone call from Edward was fantastic with what he said to Liz. Seriously, who would ever want to have 2 halves of oneself in conflict w/in one another all their live long days? No wonder George VI was po'd.
Wish the first season went further
divviebee30 November 2017
A surprising place to end Elizabeth's story without getting in to the crisis in Egypt. The cold ending to Margaret's love affair feels incomplete. If true, was this how the sisters left it or did it continue to effect their relationship? I do think Claire Foy is amazing to watch and her sense of duty and patriotism is remarkable, especially in a time with people think being Queen is so amazing.
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